18 April 2012

Aboriginal Legal Service Table Big Changes

18 April 2012

Community members, clients, staff and visitors of the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA (ALSWA) are about to benefit from a major revamp of the organisation’s 14 offices throughout the state.

The long overdue changes will be funded by Lotterywest and during a special function at ALSWA’s Perth Head Office today, ALSWA was presented with the grant by Minister for Indigenous Affairs the Hon Peter Collier.

Cramped conditions and tired and outdated fittings are set to be replaced with high quality and comfortable surrounds which will provide a more welcoming and conducive environment for people, many of whom often visit the service under stressful circumstances if requiring support or representation from ALSWA’s legal team.

Various research undertaken indicates the impact the built environment can have on clients ofanyservice. Whilst our staff consistently demonstrate a high level of professional skills, this needs to be supported by a built environment which tangibly demonstrates the high value in which our clients are held. As an organisation we are committed to placing our clients at ease and with the provision of a LotteryWest grant we are now in a better position to do this’ said Adjunct Professor Dennis Eggington, Chief Executive Officer of ALSWA.

The office already boasts an impressive array of artwork which Indigenises the space and to now be able to enhance the area with more appropriate fittings, ALSWA will be able to work even more effectively with clients.

Apart from providing high level legal advice, support and advocacy, ALSWA head office board room also hosts numerous meetings from a range of community groups and organisations who are committed to improving the legal, social, health and other human rights outcomes for Indigenous peoples.

“For ALSWA to now be able to offer a comfortable environment for a diverse range of individuals, community groups and sector specific organisations means we can become a focal point for high quality consultation, discussion and most importantly outcomes for our people’, said Mr. Eggington.

Further enquiries can be directed to ALSWA Media Officer Jodi Hoffmann on0428 948 610.

ALSWA would like to take this opportunity to thank Lotterywest for its support in providing a grant for furniture, equipment and IT. The $653,471.00 grant is of great benefit in presenting ALSWA to clients, stakeholders and staff with a professional environment